A vibrant, earthy, and tangy pastry perfect for brunch, light lunches, or elegant starters.

Beetroot & Goat-Cheese Tartlet is a delicate, flavourful pastry that is comprised of layers of naturally sweetness of roasted beetroot with the creamy-soft goat cheese. Set on a crisp, golden pastry base, it combines earthy, sweet, and slightly sharp notes in a beautifully balanced bite. Finished with herbs or a light drizzle of balsamic glaze, it’s elegant enough for entertaining yet simple enough for everyday meals.

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Ingredients (Makes 6 tartlets or 1 medium crisp)

• 1 sheet ready-rolled puff pastry (or shortcrust for a sturdier crisp)
• 2 medium cooked beetroots, thinly sliced
• 120 g soft goat cheese (chèvre)
• 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
• Fresh thyme (or rosemary)
• Salt and black pepper
• Optional garnish: crushed walnuts or toasted pumpkin seeds

Method

Get the base ready.
Set the oven’s temperature to 200°C (fan 180°C).
For tartlets, cut the pastry into six rounds or rectangles, or leave it whole for one big crisp.
To create a raised, flaky edge, score a little border around each piece.

From the filling
Combine honey, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
Evenly distribute and slightly overlap the beetroot slices on top of the crust.

Place tiny spoonfuls of goat cheese on top.
Pour the dressing over the cheese and beets.
Add some fresh thyme leaves

Bake

Transfer to a prepared baking tray and bake for 18 to 22 minutes, or until the crust is golden and puffy.

Complete and serve
For extra texture, sprinkle some smashed pumpkin seeds or walnuts on top.
Serve warm or room temperature with a pear and rocket salad on the side.

Health Benefits

Packed with antioxidants
Betalains, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities, are abundant in beetroot by nature. These promote cardiovascular health in general and cell protection in particular.
Promotes endurance and blood flow
Beetroot’s dietary nitrates are converted by the body into nitric oxide, which improves blood flow, lowers blood pressure, and increases endurance—a great option for naturally increasing energy.

A good source of vital nutrients
Folate, manganese, potassium, and fibre are found in beetroot and enhance digestion, red blood cell production, and neurone function.
Protein and healthy fats in balance
Compared to many cheeses made from cow’s milk, goat cheese delivers more easily digested proteins and healthy fatty acids. It gives a creamy richness without being unduly heavy and adds calcium.
Synergy between nutrients
Goat cheese’s acidity and beetroot’s inherent sweetness work together to keep you full, and nuts and seeds provide heart-healthy fats and minerals like zinc and magnesium.